As countries around the globe get amped up for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, we’re getting just as excited about all the new architecture and development that’s blossoming there. Although all of the new stadiums are gorgeous, so far we’ve been a little dissappointed with the lack of sustainable design — until now, that is. The Moses Mabhid Stadium in Durban features an array of eco-worthy design features and it doesn’t hurt that it’s pretty amazing looking — especially at night.

The Moses Mabhid Stadium, named for Moses Mabhida, a former general secretary of the South African Communist Party, finished construction back in 2009 and has already held several matches. For the FIFA 2010 World Cup, the Moses Mabhid Stadium will host one of the semi-final matches and has a capacity to seat 70,000 during the games. South Africa’s new high speed rail line will connect with Durban so fans can easily reach the matches. The design is striking, especially with the grand arch overhead, which is more than just a cosmetic feature. A cable-car rides the arch up to a skydeck where visitors can view the games from above or take in sights of the city and the nearby ocean.

As for the sustainable features, the new stadium was in part built from the materials of the old stadium, including 30,000 cubic meters of concrete demolition material. The roof membrane is PTFE, which is 50% transparent and provides natural daylight while protecting the fans below. Water conservation and energy efficiency were also top priorities, as was natural ventilation and daylighting. The stadium boasts an energy-efficient heating and cooling systems and is capable of collecting rainwater. After the World Cup, the stadium will be used for other sporting events and concerts — it was even built to Olympic standards in hopes of a hosting a future Olympic Games in South Africa. The architectural team for the stadium included Theunissen Jankowitz Durban, Ambro-Afrique Consultants, Osmond Lange Architects & Planners, NSM Designs, Mthulisi Msimang, and gmp International.

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